The People’s Procession
This week, Scotland has welcomed His Majesty King Charles III and Her Majesty Queen Camilla as part of a series of events to mark the Coronation.
As well as the Royal Procession, 21-gun salute and Ceremony of the Keys –the city held a People’s Procession on Wednesday to welcome the new King and Queen.
The People’s Procession, which consisted of about 100 people representing different aspects of Scottish life, including charities, the National Trust, and the Girls Brigade – also included one of our very own: Livingston postman, Frank McAdam.
Frank, who has been a postie at Royal Mail for 46 years said he was honoured to take part.
‘The atmosphere was brilliant. Everybody was happy, people were cheering and the weather was good – I even managed getting a bit sunburnt,’ he said.
The highlight for Frank was attending a once-in-a-lifetime event, including his first ever visit inside St Giles’ Cathedral.
‘It was such a lovely service. Some of the music was quite emotional,’ he said. ‘I was told afterwards that a lot of the music was King Charles’ choice. He even had some pieces especially written for the event.’
Those lucky enough to walk in the procession were invited to wear their uniform. Frank was originally going to don his red polo for the day but decided on a touch of Royal Mail instead.
He said: ‘I felt my regular uniform might feel a bit casual for such an occasion. I chose to wear my suit in the end – however, I wore my Royal Mail tie with the silver crown on it and my wee gold badge I received for my long-service.’
Those participating in the procession were escorted by cadet musicians, the Royal Regiment of Scotland and its mascot Corporal Cruachan IV, the Shetland pony who attempted to take a bite out of the late Queen’s bouquet during a visit to Stirling in 2017.
‘I was getting a bit nervous in the lead up, but it was incredible day,’ he said. ‘Everyone was watching. My colleagues were pleased I was doing it. And my wife had all the grandchildren around watching it on the telly playing spot grandpa in the crowd. I’ll never forget it.’
